SimHQ was told as much at E3. In fact, I explained my impression of just that - a progression from X36 to X45 to X52 to X52 Pro, their new Yoke with LCD, and Pro Flight panels and other FSX-related hardware, etc. I asked if they were trending towards a high-end controller market. I expected a somewhat vague answer, but instead got a straightforward "yes".

It's a strange turn of events. Saitek has for the last few years been king of the cheap HOTAS. Now they've given up the spot without a fight (unless they plan a cheaper 'X61' setup).

I really have to wonder who's going to lay down 750$ for this new gear. A cougar setup costs what, 250$? Does Saitek expect the small hardcore flight sim community to lay down it's cougars and CH gear and pick up Saitek products; Products that have been historically cheap-feeling and toyish-looking.

Maybe these products cost more in China than they sell for in the west? Maybe the US RRP will be 4 or 5 hundred dollars. It seems a bit hard to believe that they'll seriously consider trying to sell this setup for 750$ amid a recession and declining hardcore sim market when a cougar setup costs 1/3rd that much.

I'm sorry but I must say I found X52 to have anything but cheap feeling and toyish. I have on occasion looked inside the stick and throttle and I must the quality of the construction is remarkable with great attention given down to the individual solder joints.

As far as the X65F is concerned we really can't say anything for sure, until an official announcement is made. For all we know, that could have been an early model, that Saitek never intends to release.

I don't own an X52 so I can't comment on it's build quality, but my X45 feels like a toy. It has gimicy features such as LED's in buttons and a bit of plastic that covers the fire button. Worst of all is the poorly designed central spring mechanism. The throttle is decent which is why I use it in combination with my CH Fighterstick.

Cheers

Woops... someone let the cat out of the bag in China.

Jason

Similarly, I can't comment on the X45, as I've never had the opportunity to use one. The X52 has those gimmicky features as well, LED buttons and a plastic flap for the fire button, but I find that, when it comes to build quality, Saitek have done a very good job.

Cheers

Yeah well i bought their yoke when it first came out...had nothing but trouble with it...phantom button presses...got a second one and it to had phantom presses plus it wouldnt self centre...sent that back too and bought a SH ch yoke off Ebay and have never had probs with it...i wouldnt pay more than 150 australian for ANYTHING with saitek written on it...like the rudder pedals but..and the quad is ok....but i got the rudders before the yoke and got the quad cheap as a 'sorry' from the supplier who sold me the yoke..

just my 2c worth

Saitek was my first HOTAS setup with their X36 (if I remember correctly). I had the gameport version before upgrading to a USB setup and then their next in line. I like the look of the stick and the (implied through photo recon) features. I have been considering the new Logitech setup and I will keep a close eye on previews/reviews and marketing materials for a fall 09 purchase ... however at that rumoured price point, I think there needs to be a really compelling reason to purchase the Saitek set.

Current setup: CH FighterStick, Pro Pedals, Pro Throttle and MFP. I still have my Saitek X52(?) connected with the stick on the floor and the throttle sitting in from of the Pro Throttle for it's trim wheels.

Given the force feedback, additional trim axis and split throttle of the Logitech as the only reasons for a new purchase. And I doubt that my CH gear will be relegated to the dusty corners. The Saitek set needs to add something more or have a more acceptable cost.

If that's real, then Logitech has major competition for my next HOTAS...

...or they would if it was confirmed to be much more affordable! (300 US$ is expensive enough as-is! 731 US$ without pedals? No way!)

Also, I can't be sure that the stick has force-feedback. I'm looking for a FFB-enabled HOTAS with a split throttle as a complement to my FCC-modded Cougar, NOT a replacement.

One thing's for sure: that rack mount in front of the throttle is a neat idea, coupled with their little MFDs.

http://www.saitek.com/force/

Sokol1